Vehicle component for a vehicle

ABSTRACT

A vehicle component for a vehicle has a component body which extends longitudinally in a longitudinal direction, wherein the component body has deformation zones which are spatially distributed in the longitudinal direction and are formed in the component body of sheet metal material. At least two locally distributed and spaced-apart deformation zones have different tensile strengths configured to influence a deformation course of the component body upon a force acting on the component body.

CROSS-REFERENCE

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/693,625 by Frost et al., entitled “VEHICLE COMPONENT FOR AVEHICLE,” filed Nov. 25, 2019, which claims the benefit of German PatentApplication No. 10 2018 129 724.6 by Frost et al., entitled“FAHRZEUGBAUTEIL FÜR EIN FAHRZEUG,” filed Nov. 26, 2018, each of whichis assigned to the assignee hereof, and each of which is expresslyincorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a vehicle component for a vehicle, inparticular for a motor vehicle.

BACKGROUND

The vehicle component may in particular be part of a vehicle body anddetermine the mechanical properties, for example a deformation of thevehicle body in the event of a force acting on the vehicle body.Furthermore, the vehicle component may have deformation regions whichmay have a reduced material hardness in order to concentrate adeformation of the vehicle component on these deformation regions. Inparticular, this allows the direction of the deformation to becontrolled and/or cracks in the vehicle component to be avoided.Accordingly, with the deformation regions a change in the geometry ofthe vehicle component can be predetermined at an acting force. However,with the known vehicle components, the time profile of the deformationor of the energy absorption by the vehicle component in the case of anexternal force acting on the vehicle component cannot be predetermined.

SUMMARY

It is the object of the present disclosure to provide a more efficientvehicle component, which is in particular adapted to realize apredetermined temporal and/or geometric deformation behavior of thevehicle component when a force is applied to the vehicle component.

This object is solved by the features of the independent claims.Advantageous examples are subject of the dependent claims, thedescription and the accompanying figures.

The present disclosure is based on the finding that the above object isachieved by a vehicle component having a plurality of localizeddeformation zones having different material hardnesses in respect toeach other and in respect to the surrounding material. In particular,first deformation zones with a low material hardness can be provided atforce introduction points of the vehicle component, and with increasingdistance from the force introduction points, further deformation zones,which are spaced from the first deformation zone, can have a greatermaterial hardness than the first deformation zones. As a result, thedeformation behavior of the vehicle component, in particular anaccordion-like folding, a buckling and/or bending and its respectivetemporal development, can be predetermined.

According to a first aspect, the disclosure relates to a vehiclecomponent for a vehicle, with a component body, which extendslongitudinally in a longitudinal direction. The component body haslongitudinally distributed and deformation zones, which are spaced apartfrom each other, which are formed in the component body of sheetmaterial. At least two locally distributed and deformation zones, whichare spaced-apart from each other, have different tensile strengths inorder to influence a deformation profile of the component body when aforce is applied to the component body.

The vehicle component may be a thermoformed vehicle component, inparticular made of a hardenable steel alloy, for example manganese-boronsteel. For example, an A-pillar, a part of the roof frame, an innerreinforcement of the roof frame, a side rail, an inner reinforcement ofthe side rail, a fender, a beam, a diagonal strut, a vertical strut, anend wall, a tunnel in a subfloor, a seat cross member, a joist, a heelplate, a side sill, a B-pillar, a C-pillar, a roof cross member, a seatback, seat area and/or a seat edge.

Furthermore, the vehicle component may be a, in particular partiallyhardened, axle part, wherein the axle part may have predeterminedbending points. These predetermined bending points can be realized, forexample, by means of the deformation zones or can be formed by thedeformation zones.

Furthermore, the vehicle component may be made of steel, in particular aUHSS steel, aluminum, an aluminum alloy or a composite material. Thedeformation zones can be produced for example by a local heat treatmentof the component body. By the heat treatment the transition of thedeformation zones to the sheet metal material can be additionallyadapted. For example, a gradual, continuous or stepped adaptation of thetensile strength can be realized. The deformation zones can be arrangedin a flat surface of the component body and/or can extend over edges,bends and/or recesses of the component body. A shaping of the componentbody can take place before or after the introduction of the deformationzones.

The deformation zones may in particular be adapted to control adeformation of the component body in the case of a force acting parallelto the longitudinal direction. For example, a multipart folding of thecomponent body can be realized. A temporal and local predetermination ofthe folding can be realized by an adaptation of the tensile strength ofthe deformation zones. Deformation zones with a lower tensile strengthcan allow a deformation of the component body before deformation zoneswith a higher tensile strength allow a further deformation of thecomponent body.

Furthermore, the deformation zones can be arranged at the expected forceapplication points in order to realize a force absorption andcorrespondingly a deformation in a deformation zone, wherein regions ofthe component body outside the deformation zone experience less or nodeformation. Deformation zones with increasing tensile strength can bearranged along the longitudinal direction.

Furthermore, a plurality of mutually separated deformation zones of thesame or similar tensile strength can be arranged in a first section ofthe component body. Moreover, in a second section, which is offset alongthe longitudinal direction relative to the first section, furtherdeformation zones, which are separated from each other, of the same orsimilar tensile strength can be arranged. The tensile strength of thefurther deformation zones in the second section may be greater than thetensile strength of the deformation zones in the first section. Thedeformation zones in the respective section can be arranged centrally orpartially spaced from an axis of symmetry of the component body.

The component body extends axially along the longitudinal direction,wherein the longitudinal direction may have a curved course, whichfollows the geometry of the component body. Furthermore, thelongitudinal direction can coincide with an axis of symmetry and/or amain extension direction of the component body.

In one example, the component body with the locally distributeddeformation zones can be formed in one piece, in particular in one pieceand without interruption, from the sheet metal material. As a result,the advantage is achieved that the component body can have gap-freetransitions between the deformation zones and the sheet metal materialand/or a connection of the deformation zones with the component body byadhesive, welding or screw connections can be dispensed. Furthermore,the component body may have a homogeneous surface and/or a homogeneoussurface structure. Furthermore, this can realize the advantage ofefficient power transmission from the sheet material to the deformationzones.

In one example, the component body is formed with the locallydistributed deformation zones of at least two mutually joined sheetmetal blanks. The component body may in particular be a tailored blankor be formed from a tailored blank, and be composed accordingly of sheetmetal blanks, which may have different material qualities, sheetthicknesses and/or materials. Furthermore, the joined sheet metal blanksmay have overlapping areas in which the sheet metal blanks are arrangedoverlapping, in particular joined. Furthermore, a reinforcing plate canbe arranged at the joining regions or a reinforcing plate can be formedby the joining region.

In one example, each of the locally distributed deformation zones eachhave a tensile strength, which differs from a tensile strength of thecomponent body outside of the respective locally distributed deformationzone. In particular, the tensile strength outside of the deformationzones can be increased compared to the tensile strength of thedeformation zones. As a result, a deformation of the component body maybe limited to the deformation zones and/or to areas adjacent to thedeformation zones. The sheet material can accordingly undergo a smallerdeformation than the deformation zones when a force is applied to thecomponent body.

In one example, the tensile strengths of at least two successivespatially distributed deformation zones, in particular in thelongitudinal direction of the component body, are decreasing orincreasing. When a force is applied to the component body, firstdeformation zones of lower tensile strength may first cause adeformation. If the deformation potential of the first deformation zonesis exhausted, a second deformation zone with a higher tensile strengththan the first deformation zone can result in a further deformation.Accordingly, a temporal sequence of a deformation of the component bodyby means of the deformation zones of different tensile strength can becontrolled.

In one example, a region of higher tensile strength may extend betweenthe first deformation zone and the second deformation zone, wherein thetensile strength is increased, in particular, relative to a respectivetensile strength of the first deformation zone and the seconddeformation zone. As a result, the advantage of improved rigidityproperties and advantageously increased resistance to deformation of thecomponent body is achieved.

In one example, deformation zones may have a reduced tensile strength atthe ends of the component body in the longitudinal direction and/orfurther deformation zones that are arranged away from the ends of thecomponent body may have increased tensile strength. Correspondingly,upon a force acting on the component body, first a deformation at theends of the component body and then a deformation away from the ends ofthe component body can be realized.

In one example, the deformation zones are arranged with lower tensilestrength at expected force application points of the component bodyand/or deformation zones with higher tensile strength are arrangedfarther away from the expected force introduction points.

In one example, the tensile strengths of adjacent locally distributeddeformation zones are different or the tensile strengths of the locallydistributed deformation zones differ by at least 20 MPa, preferably byat least 50 MPa, in particular by at least 100 MPa. The component bodycan be made of a high-strength steel (UHSS—Ultra High Strength Steel)and have a tensile strength greater than 1350 MPa. Furthermore, thetensile strength of the component body can be less than 2100 MPa. Thedeformation zones may have a tensile strength which is less than 1100MPa. Advantageously, the tensile strengths of the locally distributeddeformation zones may differ from one another by at least 20 MPa whenthe component body made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy ismanufactured.

The component body may be made of aluminum or an aluminum alloy and havea tensile strength greater than 350 MPa at a yield strength of 0.2%(R_(p)0.2). Furthermore, the tensile strength of the component body maybe less than 600 MPa. The deformation zones may have a tensile strengthwhich is less than 400 MPa, wherein the yield strength R_(p)0,2 and/orthe tensile strength Rm of the deformation zones may be different fromeach other and the difference is at least 20 MPa. The component body mayin particular be formed from a sheet metal material, which is a flatextruded profile. The flat extruded profile can have different wallthicknesses.

In one example, the component body has a force absorption area for theacting force. A first deformation zone downstream of the forceabsorption area has a tensile strength which is less than a tensilestrength of a second deformation zone downstream of the force absorptionarea and the first deformation zone in the longitudinal direction.

In one example, the locally distributed deformation zones are formed, inparticular in the case of an impact, to obtain a longitudinallypredetermined deformation course, in particular a bend or a fold, of thecomponent body. With the reduced tensile strength of the deformationzones, a preferred direction of a folding and/or bending of thecomponent body can be determined. Furthermore, a maximum bending angleof the component body at the deformation zone can be determined by thetensile strength. The greater the tensile strength of the deformationzone, the smaller a maximum achievable bending angle of the deformationzone can be.

The deformation zone can be adapted to realize a predetermined bendingdirection and/or a predetermined folding arrangement of the componentbody under a dynamically acting load. For each predetermined folding ofthe component body, a separate deformation zone may be provided. Atemporal order of the folds can be realized by increasing tensilestrengths of the deformation zones. For example, deformation zones witha greater tensile strength than deformation zones with a low tensilestrength can realize a folding of the component body in a temporallysubordinate manner. Accordingly, deformation zones with lower tensilestrength can give way first in a collision.

In one example, the locally distributed deformation zones are spacedfrom each other, in particular by a predetermined distance, or areisolated by sheet material of different tensile strength. In particular,the sheet material may have a higher or different tensile strengthrelative to the deformation zones.

As a result, the advantage is achieved that the deformation zones do notreduce the stability of the component body, in particular in the case ofstatic or, compared to an impact, a smaller dynamic load. Furthermore,dimensionally stable regions can be formed between the deformation zonesby a spaced arrangement of the deformation zones, which, in the event ofan impact, do not deform or only slightly deform in comparison to thedeformation zones. The combination of dimensionally stable regions anddeformation zones can be used to control a defined deformation of thecomponent body in the event of an impact in order to allow for a highdegree of energy reduction. For example, in the event of an impact, anaccordion-like compression of the component body in the impact directionand/or the longitudinal direction can be realized reproducibly.

In one example, each of the locally distributed deformation zone isenclosed by sheet material of the component body having a tensilestrength different from the tensile strength of the respective locallydistributed deformation zone, or the locally distributed deformationzones are distributed island-like.

In one example, the different tensile strengths of the locallydistributed deformation zones are caused by different materialhardnesses of the locally distributed deformation zones. A change inmaterial hardness can be realized by heat, mechanical deformation,chemical processes or structural changes, such as material recesses. Thetensile strength of the deformation zones may be proportional to thematerial hardness of the deformation zones.

In one example, the component body with the locally distributeddeformation zones is manufactured by thermoforming, which also known aspress hardening.

In one example, the component body with the locally distributeddeformation zones is integrally formed from the same sheet metalmaterial, in particular from a metal or a metal alloy.

In one example, the tensile strengths of the locally distributeddeformation zones in steel as the sheet material are less than 1100 MPaand in aluminum as the sheet material are in a tensile strength rangebetween 50 MPa and 400 MPa.

In one example, outside of the locally distributed deformation zones,the component body has an increased tensile strength of at least 5%,preferably at least 10%, in particular at least 15%, with respect to thelocally distributed deformation zones.

In one example, the locally distributed deformation zones form zonegroups of deformation zones of equal tensile strength. For example, afirst number of spaced-apart deformation zones having a first tensilestrength can be arranged in a first region of the component body. In asecond region of the component body, a second number of spaced apartdeformation zones having a second tensile strength and/or in a thirdregion of the component body a third number of spaced deformation zoneshaving a third tensile strength may be arranged. The tensile strength ofthe first number may be smaller than the tensile strength of the secondnumber and/or the tensile strength of the second number may be smallerthan the tensile strength of the third number. Further, the tensilestrength of the third number may be smaller than the tensile strength ofthe surrounding sheet material.

In one example, the deformation zone with the lowest tensile strengthhas the greatest distance to an interior and/or a survival cell of themotor vehicle when viewing the component body in a mounted state in themotor vehicle.

In one example, the locally distributed deformation zones are free ofedges or at least partially oval, circular, triangular, rectangular.Furthermore, the deformation zones can each correspond to any desiredfree form, which can be adapted to the geometry of the component body.In particular, the deformation zones can be arranged in planar regionsof the component body. An edge contour of the deformation zone can inparticular have a continuous curvature, so that the deformation zone canbe edge-free.

In one example, the tensile strengths of the locally distributeddeformation zones are lower relative to the surrounding sheet materialof the component body.

In one example, the component body additionally has further locallydistributed deformation zones transversely to the longitudinaldirection. In particular, the deformation zones arranged transversely tothe longitudinal direction may have the same characteristics as thedeformation zones arranged in the longitudinal direction.

In one example, the vehicle component is a vehicle pillar, in particularan A, B, or C pillar, a carrier, in particular a side rail or a crossrail, a bumper, or a body component.

According to a second aspect, the disclosure relates to a method forproducing a vehicle component for a vehicle, with forming, in particularthermoforming, of a semi-finished product to form a component body whichextends longitudinally in a longitudinal direction; and applying heat tothe component body to produce longitudinally distributed deformationzones, which are formed of sheet material in the component body, whereinat least two locally distributed deformation zones, which arespaced-apart from each other, of different tensile strengths aregenerated after the forming, to influence a deformation course of thecomponent body upon a force acting on the component body. In particular,the deformation zones may have different material hardnesses relative tothe surrounding sheet metal material and/or relative to each other.

Due to the heat application of the component body, the hardness andstrength can be reduced locally after a hardening of the component bodyor on a cold-formed sheet metal plate made of UHSS. The cold-formedsheet metal blank can be formed into a semi-finished product which canform the component body. The heat application can be implementedinductively, by means of a laser, a burner and/or a, in particularcontour-matched heating plate.

In one example, prior to the heat-forming of the component body, thesheet metal blank or the preformed semi-finished product can be heatedto austenitizing temperature in a partial area and then quenched in acooled pressing tool. This can also be called “multi-zone heating”. Thecomponent body can be adapted to be austenic on reaching theaustenitizing temperature and to take carbon almost completely intosolution.

In one example, the sheet metal blank or the preformed semi-finishedproduct may first be completely austenitized prior to form hardening,then cooled or held in a partial region to a temperature betweenaustenitizing temperature and martensite start temperature, and finallyquenched in the cooled pressing tool. This can also be referred to as“multi-zone cooling”.

In particular, the deformation zones can be softened by means of a heattreatment of an already hardened component body. The component body canbe formed from a combination of materials comprising martensite,retained austenite, perlite, ferrite and/or bainite. The materialhardness of the component body may be dependent on a martensiteproportion. The deformation zones in the component body can be producedby a partial austenitization of the component body, in particular withsubsequent ferrite-pearlite conversion. A softening of the deformationzones achieves the advantage of better formability. Alternatively,tempering may be performed at a temperature less than arecrystallization temperature Ac3.

Furthermore, the softening of the deformation zones may be realized byrecrystallization of the component body, which is in particular formedby a thin sheet. The grain structure of the material can be completelyrenewed by brief heating to allow further cold forming.

In one example, the component body is formed from a cold-hardened 5000aluminum alloy, and after reshaping the component body, the componentbody can be heat-treated in a partial region by means of induction,laser, burner and/or heating plate to produce the deformation zones. Asubsequent heat treatment of the surrounding high-strength areas can beomitted. Furthermore, the surrounding high-strength areas can beadditionally cooled in order to reduce a heat flow. Accordingly, heatinput can be restricted to a limited area. This may be necessary fordeformation zones with low tensile strength, since they can experiencean increased heat input.

In one example, the component body is formed of a work hardened 5000 orprecipitation hardenable 6000 or 7000 aluminum alloy, and prior toforming the component body, the component body may be heat treated byinduction, laser, torch and/or heating plate in a portion to create thedeformation zones. The heat treatment can be varied in duration and/orintensity, wherein a change in the tensile strength can be proportionalto an energy input into the deformation zone. After the heat treatment,a cooling of the deformation zones and/or the semi-finished product canbe realized by means of an active cooling, in particular thesemi-finished product can be quenched. Subsequently, the semi-finishedproduct can be formed by means of a cold pressing tool to the componentbody. Forming may take place immediately after the heat treatment and/orcooling. For a 5000 alloy, reshaping may be necessary immediately afterthe heat treatment.

In one example, the vehicle component is a side member or a fender in afront end and/or a rear portion of a vehicle, wherein the deformationzones are adapted during an impact, to controllably compress and/orbuckle the vehicle component.

In one example, the vehicle component is a deformation element in thefront end and/or the rear end of the vehicle, wherein the deformationelement is arranged in a main load path, in an upper load path and/or alower load path of the vehicle, and wherein the deformation zones areadapted during an impact to controllably compress and/or buckle thevehicle component.

In one example, the vehicle component is a beam in the front end and/orrear end of the vehicle, the deformation zones being formed tocontrollably twist and/or bend the wearer during impact.

In one example, the vehicle component is a diagonal strut in the frontend of the vehicle, wherein the deformation zones are formed with asmall overlap to bend the diagonal strut in a controlled manner duringimpact.

In one example, the vehicle component is a vertical strut in the frontend of the vehicle, wherein the deformation zones are formed tocontrollably compress the vertical strut during impact.

In one example, the vehicle component is an end wall in the front of thevehicle, wherein the deformation zones are formed in an impact tocompress the end wall in a controlled manner.

In one example, the vehicle component is a tunnel, a seat cross member,a longitudinally arranged joist and/or a heel plate, which arerespectively arranged in an underbody of the vehicle, wherein thedeformation zones are formed to controllably compress the vehiclecomponent during impact.

In one example, the vehicle component is arranged laterally to the leftor to the right or at the roof of the vehicle, wherein the vehiclecomponent forms an A pillar, a B pillar, a C pillar, a roof cross memberand/or a roof frame, and wherein the deformation zones are formed at animpact, to controllably buckle and/or to provide expansion reserves ofstiffness jumps of the vehicle component.

In one example, the vehicle component is arranged on the left or rightside, in particular in a door of the vehicle, wherein the vehiclecomponent is a door impact carrier and the deformation zones are formedduring impact to bend the door impact carrier in a controlled manner.The controlled buckling of the door impact beam can be realized inparticular while maintaining the structural integrity of the door impactbeam and a reduction, in particular a minimization, a maximumpenetration depth of the door impact beam may be realized.

In one example, the vehicle component is arranged in the interior of thevehicle, in particular as part of a vehicle seat, wherein the vehiclecomponent is a backrest, a flank and/or a seat surface, and wherein thedeformation zones are formed during impact to controllably compress andto buckle the vehicle component to prevent uncontrolled collapse of thevehicle component.

In a controlled buckling of the vehicle component deformation zones withlower tensile strength can be arranged closer to force applicationpoints as deformation zones with greater tensile strength. In acontrolled buckling, an accordion-like folding of the vehicle componentcan be realized by an alternating arrangement of areas of lower tensilestrength and areas with greater tensile strength.

In one example, the deformation zones form a predetermined bending pointin order to prevent buckling of regions of the vehicle component thatare vulnerable to buckling outside of the deformation zones.

Furthermore, the advantage can be achieved by the arrangement ofdeformation zones of different tensile strength in the component body,that the asymmetric geometries of the component body can be balancedand/or compensated.

A controlled deformation can be defined as a predetermined geometricinfluence, in particular with a predetermined deformation directionand/or a predetermined temporal sequence. A controlled compression,buckling, bending, twisting and/or folding achieves the advantage thatan uncontrollable collapse of the vehicle component can be prevented.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Further examples will be explained with reference to the accompanyingfigures.

FIG. 1A shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 1B shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 1C shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 1D shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 2A shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 2B shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 2C shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 2D shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 2E shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 2F shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 3A shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 3B shows a vehicle component in one example;

FIG. 3C shows a vehicle component in one example; and

FIG. 4 shows a vehicle component in one example.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1A shows a schematic representation of a vehicle component 100 witha component body 101, which extends in a longitudinal direction 103longitudinally. The component body 101 has in the longitudinal direction103 locally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3, which areformed in the component body 101 of sheet material. At least two locallydistributed and spaced-apart deformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3 havedifferent tensile strengths in order to influence a deformation courseof the component body 101 when a force is applied to the component body101. The vehicle component 100 is a seat cross member, which can bearranged in an underbody of a vehicle.

The component body 101 is integrally and uninterrupted formed with thelocally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3 from the sheetmaterial. Further, each of the locally distributed deformation zones105-1, 105-2, 105-3 has a tensile strength different from a tensilestrength of the component body 101 outside the respective locallydistributed deformation zone 105-1, 105-2, 105-3. The tensile strengthoutside the deformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3 is in particulargreater than the respective tensile strength of the deformation zones105-1, 105-2, 105-3. Furthermore, the tensile strengths differ from theadjacent locally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3, inparticular the tensile strengths differ by at least 50 MPa, preferably100 MPa. A first deformation zone 105-1 may have a material hardness of500 HV, a second deformation zone 105-2 may have a material hardness of650 HV, and a third deformation zone 105-3 may have a material hardnessof 500 HV. The deformation zones 105-1 through 105-3 may extend beyondan upper radius R, as shown by deformation zone boundaries 106-1 through106-3. The deformation zone boundaries 106-1 to 106-3 describe thetransition of the respective deformation zone 105-1 to 105-3 to thematerial of the component body 101 surrounding the deformation zones105-1 to 105-3.

The component body 101 has a force-receiving region 107 for theapplication of force, wherein a first deformation zone 105-1 arrangeddownstream of the force-receiving region 107 has a tensile strengthwhich is lower than a tensile strength of a second deformation zone105-2 downstream of the force-receiving region 107 and the firstdeformation zone 105-1 in the longitudinal direction 103. Furthermore,the locally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3 areformed, in order to obtain, in the event of an impact, a predetermineddeformation course in the longitudinal direction 103 of the componentbody 101, in particular a bend or a fold. The locally distributeddeformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3 are spaced apart from each otherat a predetermined distance and insulated by sheet material. The sheetmaterial has a higher tensile strength compared to the deformation zones105-1, 105-2, 105-3. The locally distributed deformation zones 105-1,105-2, 105-3 are formed oval and edge-free.

The vehicle component 100 may be arranged in a vehicle, in particulartransversely to a direction of travel 111. Furthermore, the vehiclecomponent 100 may be formed symmetrically transversely to the directionof travel 111, wherein the first deformation zone 105-1 and the thirddeformation zone 105-3 have a similar tensile strength, which is furtherreduced with respect to the second deformation zone 105-2. Accordingly,the vehicle component 100 may be designed to be deformed first in theregions of the first deformation zone 105-1 and the third deformationzone 105-3 in the event of a collision of the vehicle, and subsequentlyto be deformed in the region of the second deformation zone 105-2. Theforce acting on the vehicle component 100 is, for example, parallel tothe direction of travel 111. Further, the component body 101 has twocurved portions 117-1, 117-2, which are formed in the longitudinaldirection 103, and formed to form a U-profile shape of the componentbody 100.

FIG. 1B shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle component100 according to the example shown in FIG. 1A. The cross-sectional viewcorresponds to a cross-section of the component body 100 along thecross-sectional axis 119 shown in FIG. 1A. The cut deformation zone105-2 extends along the profile shape of the component body 100, inparticular along the curvature regions 117-1, 117-2.

FIG. 1C shows a schematic representation of a vehicle component 100which is a seat cross member, which may be arranged in a underbody of avehicle. The vehicle component 100 corresponds to the example shown inFIG. 1A, wherein four further deformation zones 109-1 to 109-4 areformed in the component body 101. The further deformation zones 109-1 to109-4 are rectangular, in particular formed with rounded corners.

The locally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-3, 109-1, 109-2,109-3, 109-4 form zone groups 113-1, 113-2 of deformation zones of thesame tensile strength. A first zone group 113-1 includes the deformationzones 105-1, 109-1, and 109-3. A second zone group 113-2 includes thedeformation zones 105-3, 109-2 and 109-4.

In one example, the deformation zones 109-1 and/or 109-3 may each have alower tensile strength than the deformation zone 105-1.

FIG. 1D shows a schematic perspective illustration of a vehiclecomponent 100 with a component body 101, which extends in a longitudinaldirection 103 longitudinally. The component body 101 has in thelongitudinal direction 103 locally distributed deformation zones 105-1,105-3, which are formed in the component body 101 of sheet material. Thevehicle component 100 is a seat cross member, which may be disposed inan underbody of a vehicle.

In one example, the deformation zones 105-1, 105-3 may have comparabletensile strength. The vehicle component 100 has a U-profile shape,wherein at the profile ends in each case a flattened sideband 115-1,115-2 is formed, on which the further deformation zones 109-1, 109-2 and109-3, 109-4 are arranged, respectively. The further deformation zones109-1 to 109-4 may have a lower tensile strength with respect to thedeformation zones 105-1, 105-3.

The component body 101 has two curved regions 117-1, 117-2, which areformed in the longitudinal direction 103, and in particular eachadjacent to a flattened sideband 115-1, 115-2. The deformation zones105-1, 105-3 extend beyond a plateau region of the U-profile shape intothe respective curved region 117-1, 117-2 of the component body 101.Correspondingly, the deformation zones 105-1, 105-3 can also have aU-profile shape exhibit.

The locally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-3, 109-1, 109-2,109-3, 109-4 form zone groups 113-1, 113-2 of deformation zones ofdifferent tensile strength. A first zone group 113-1 includes thedeformation zones 105-1, 109-1, and 109-3. A second zone group 113-2includes the deformation zones 105-3, 109-2 and 109-4.

FIG. 2A shows a schematic illustration of a vehicle component 100 havinga component body 101 which extends in a longitudinal direction 103longitudinally. The component body 101 has in the longitudinal direction103 locally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3, which areformed in the component body 101 of sheet material. At least two locallydistributed and spaced-apart deformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3 havedifferent tensile strengths in order to influence a deformation courseof the component body 101 when a force is applied to the component body101. The vehicle component 100 is a side rail, which may be arranged ina front end of a vehicle.

The tensile strengths of three successive locally distributeddeformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3 in the longitudinal direction 103of the component body 101 are decreasing. The component body 101additionally has transversely to the longitudinal direction 103 furtherlocally distributed deformation zones 109-1, 109-2, 109-3, 109-4.

Each of the locally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3 isenclosed by sheet material of the component body 101 having a tensilestrength different from the tensile strength of the respective locallydistributed deformation zone 105-1, 105-2, 105-3. Furthermore, thelocally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3 are arrangedisland-like.

The tensile strengths of the locally distributed deformation zones105-1, 105-2, 105-3 differ from a tensile strength of the sheet metalmaterial of the component body 101 surrounding the locally distributeddeformation zones 105-1, 105-2, 105-3.

FIG. 2B shows a schematic illustration of a vehicle component 100 thathas a longitudinal member that can be arranged in a front end of avehicle. The vehicle component 100 corresponds to the example shown inFIG. 2A, wherein four further deformation zones 201-1, 201-2, 201-3,201-4 are formed in the component body 101. The further deformationzones 201-1, 201-2, 201-3, 201-4 are rectangular, in particular formedwith rounded corners.

In one example, the component body 101 may be aligned in the directionof travel 111 of the vehicle. Furthermore, the material hardness of thedeformation zones 105-1 to 105-3 and 201-1 to 201-4 may decrease in thedirection of travel 111 in order to effect an accordion-like folding ofthe component body 101 and/or a force absorption at introduction pointsin the event of an impact.

In one example, the deformation zones 105-1, 201-1 may have a firsttensile strength and/or the deformation zones 105-2, 201-2 may have asecond tensile strength and/or the deformation zones 105-3, 201-3, 201-3may have a third tensile strength.

The component body 101 has a U-profile shape, wherein in each case aflattened sideband 205-1, 205-2 is formed on respective legs of the U,on which the deformation zones 201-1, 201-2, 201-3 and 201-4 arearranged.

The locally distributed deformation zones 105-1 to 105-3 and 201-1 to201-4 form zone groups 203-1, 203-2, 203-3 of deformation zones ofdifferent tensile strength. A first zone group 203-1 includes thedeformation zones 105-1 and 201-1. A second zone group 203-2 includesthe deformation zones 105-2 and 201-2, and a third zone group 203-3includes the deformation zones 201-3, 201-4.

FIG. 2C shows a schematic representation of a vehicle component 100having a component body 101 which extends in a longitudinal direction103 longitudinally. The component body 101 has in the longitudinaldirection 103 locally distributed deformation zones 201-1, 201-2, 201-3,201-4, 201-5, which are formed in the component body 101. At least twolocally distributed and spaced-apart deformation zones 201-1 to 201-5have different tensile strengths in order to influence a deformationprofile of the component body 101 when a force is applied to thecomponent body 101. The component body 101 has a rectangular shape andcomprises a first side surface 207-1, wherein the deformation zones201-1 to 201-5 are arranged at least on the second side surface 207-2.

The deformation zones 201-2 to 201-5 may have a comparable surface area,the first deformation zone 201-1 having a larger surface area inrelation to the further deformation zones 201-2 to 201-5, in particularhaving twice the surface area on the first side surface 207-1. Thedeformation zones 201-1 to 201-5 extend transversely to the longitudinaldirection 103 completely over the first side face 207-1, in particularalso beyond the adjacent side faces which are not visible in theillustration shown. The longitudinal direction 103 of the component body101 extends parallel to an indicated X-axis and the first side surface207-1 is arranged parallel to an X-Z plane.

FIG. 2D shows a schematic representation of a vehicle component 100according to the example shown in FIG. 2C. With reference to theillustration of FIG. 2C, the illustration shown in FIG. 2D is rotated by90° with the X axis as the axis of rotation.

The component body 101 comprises a second side surface 207-2, which isarranged adjacent and at an angle, in particular at a 90° angle, to thefirst side surface 207-1. The deformation zones 201-2 to 201-5 extendtransversely to the longitudinal direction 103 at least partially on thesecond side surface 207-2. The first deformation zone 201-1 extendscompletely across the second side surface 207-2 transversely to thelongitudinal direction 103. In particular, the first deformation zone207-1 extends over all side surfaces of the component body 101.

Furthermore, the component body has a further curvature region 117-3,wherein the second side surface 207-2 is bounded laterally by thecurvature regions 117-2 and 117-3. The deformation zones 201-2, 201-4extend over the curvature area 117-2, and the deformation zones 201-3,201-5 extend over the curvature area 117-3. The longitudinal direction103 of the component body 101 extends parallel to an indicated X axisand the second side surface 207-2 is arranged parallel to an X-Y plane.

FIG. 2E shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle component100 according to the example shown in FIG. 2D. The cross-sectional viewcorresponds to a cross section of the component body 100 along thecross-sectional axis 209 shown in FIG. 2D. The cut deformation zone201-3 extends along the profile shape of the component body 100, inparticular along the side surface 207-1 and the curved regions 117-1,117-2, The component body 101 is formed from a one-piece hollow profile.

FIG. 2F shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a vehicle component100 according to the example shown in FIG. 2D. The cross-sectional viewcorresponds to a cross-section of the component body 100 along thecross-sectional axis 209 shown in FIG. 2D. The cut deformation zone201-3 extends along the profile shape of the component body 100. Thecomponent body 101 has two longitudinal members 211-1, 211-2 which aremutually connected are connected so that the component body 101 isformed double-shelled.

FIG. 3A shows a schematic illustration of a vehicle component 100 havinga component body 101 which extends in a longitudinal direction 103longitudinally. The component body 101 has in the longitudinal direction103 locally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-3, which are formedin the component body 101 of sheet material. At least two locallydistributed and spaced-apart deformation zones 105-1, 105-3 havedifferent tensile strengths in order to influence a deformation courseof the component body 101 when a force is applied to the component body101. The vehicle component 100 is a B-pillar, which can be arrangedlaterally and/or on a roof of a vehicle. The vehicle component 100 isarranged transversely to the direction of travel 111 along thelongitudinal direction 103.

Further, the deformation zones 105-1, 105-3 are, for example,oval-shaped, and a respective area of the deformation zones 105-1, 105-3increases in the lengthwise direction 103, and the tensile strength ofthe deformation zones 105-1, 105-3 decreases in the longitudinaldirection 103. A first deformation zone 105-1 may have a tensilestrength of 500 to 600 MPa, a second deformation zone 105-3 may have atensile strength of 650 to 700 MPa.

The vehicle component 100 may be connected to a vehicle floor in aregion of the first deformation zone 105-1 and/or to a vehicle roof inthe region of the third deformation zone 105-3. Accordingly, in theevent of an impact, the vehicle component 100 may bend in a controlledmanner from the bottom upwards or from the first deformation zone 105-1to the third deformation zone 105-3, and a force absorption atintroduction points, for example in the area of the first deformationzone 105-1, can be realized.

FIG. 3B shows a schematic representation of a vehicle component 100according to the example shown in FIG. 3A, wherein additionaldeformation zones 303-1, 301-2, 301-3 are formed. The vehicle component100 is in particular a B pillar.

Furthermore, the component body 101 has flanges 305-1, 305-2, which areeach arranged laterally on the component body 101 and at least partiallydelimit it. The further deformation zones 301-1, 301-2, 301-3 arerectangular, in particular formed with rounded corners. Further, theother deformation zones 301-1, 301-2, 301-3 may be formed according tothe shape of the flanges 305-1, 305-2.

The deformation zone 105-3 and/or the further deformation zones 301-1,301-2, 301-3 can have a greater tensile strength than the deformationzone 105-1, the tensile strength of the further deformation zones 301-1,301-2, 301-3 may be different with respect to the deformation zone105-3.

FIG. 3C shows a schematic representation of a vehicle component 100 thatforms a B pillar, which can be arranged laterally on a vehicle. Thevehicle component 100 corresponds to the example shown in FIG. 3A,wherein four further deformation zones 301-1, 301-2, 301-4, 301-5 areformed in the component body 101. The further deformation zones 301-1,301-2, 301-4, 301-5 are arranged on an outer edge 307 of the vehiclecomponent 100 and follow in their shape this outer edge 307.Furthermore, the further deformation zones 301-1, 301-2, 301-4, 301-5may be disposed on a flat surface of the vehicle component 100 which hasa curvature near zero with respect to the visual axis of the drawing.

The further deformation zones 301-1, 301-2, 301-4, 301-5 may be arrangedin areas of increased curvature of the vehicle component 100, inparticular at transition areas of the vehicle component 100 to a vehicleroof and/or a vehicle floor, with respect to the plane of the drawing.

The locally distributed deformation zones 105-1, 105-3, 301-1, 301-2,301-4 301-5 form zone groups 303-2, 303-3 of deformation zones ofdifferent material hardness. The zone group 303-2 includes thedeformation zones 105-1, 301-1 and 301-2. A deformation of the componentbody 101 upon a force acting on the component body 101 may in particularbe concentrated, in particular restricted, to the zone groups 303-1,303-2. The deformation zones 301-1, 301-2 may have an increased tensilestrength compared to the deformation zone 105-1. Further, thedeformation zones 301-4, 301-5 may have an increased tensile strength inview of the deformation zone 105-3.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle component 100 thatforms a deformation element that can be arranged in a rear end of avehicle. The vehicle component 100 comprises a component body 101, whichextends in a longitudinal direction 103 longitudinally. The componentbody 101 has in the longitudinal direction 103 locally distributeddeformation zones 401-1 to 401-6, which are formed in the component body101 of sheet material. At least two locally distributed and spaced-apartdeformation zones of the deformation zones 401-1 to 401-6 have differenttensile strengths in order to influence a deformation course of thecomponent body 101 when a force is applied to the component body 101.

The component body 101 is formed as an U-shaped profile and thedeformation zones 401-1 to 401-6 are arranged on a front side 402. Thecomponent body 101 may be aligned in the direction of travel 111 of thevehicle. Furthermore, the material hardness of the deformation zones401-1 to 401-6 in the direction of travel 111 may increase in order tocause an accordion-type folding of the component body 101 and/or a forceabsorption at introduction points in the event of an impact.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

100 vehicle component

101 component body

103 longitudinal direction

105-1 deformation zone

105-2 deformation zone

105-3 deformation zone

106-1 deformation zone boundaries

106-2 deformation zone boundaries

106-3 deformation zone boundaries

107 force-receiving area

109-1 deformation zone

109-2 deformation zone

109-3 deformation zone

109-4 deformation zone

111 direction of travel

113-1 zone group

113-2 zone group

115-1 sideband

115-2 sideband

117-1 curvature region

117-2 curvature region

119 cross-sectional axis

201-1 deformation zone

201-2 deformation zone

201-3 deformation zone

201-4 deformation zone

203-1 zone group

203-2 zone group

203-3 zone group

205-1 sideband

205-2 sideband

207-1 side surface

207-2 side surface

209 cross-sectional axis

211-1 longitudinal carrier

211-2 longitudinal carrier

301-1 deformation zone

301-2 deformation zone

301-3 deformation zone

301-4 deformation zone

301-5 deformation zone

303-1 zone group

303-2 zone group

305-1 flange

305-2 flange

307 outer edge

401-1 deformation zone

401-2 deformation zone

401-3 deformation zone

401-4 deformation zone

401-5 deformation zone

401-6 deformation zone

What is claimed is:
 1. A vehicle component, comprising: a component bodyextends longitudinally in a longitudinal direction, wherein thecomponent body has locally distributed deformation zones in thelongitudinal direction, wherein the locally distributed deformationzones are formed in the component body from sheet material, wherein atleast two of the locally distributed deformation zones are spaced apartand have different tensile strengths in respect to each other configuredto influence a deformation course of the component body upon a forceacting on the component body, wherein a tensile strength of each of thelocally distributed deformation zones is different from a tensilestrength of the component body outside a respective locally distributeddeformation zone.
 2. The vehicle component of claim 1, wherein thecomponent body having the locally distributed deformation zones isformed in one piece and without interruption from the sheet material. 3.The vehicle component of claim 1, wherein the component body having thelocally distributed deformation zones is formed from at least twomutually joined sheet metal blanks.
 4. The vehicle component of claim 1,wherein the tensile strengths of at least two successive locallydistributed deformation zones are decreasing or are increasing in thelongitudinal direction of the component body.
 5. The vehicle componentof claim 1, wherein the tensile strengths of the locally distributeddeformation zones differ by at least 20 MPa.
 6. The vehicle component ofclaim 1, wherein the tensile strengths of the locally distributeddeformation zones differ by at least 50 MPa.
 7. The vehicle component ofclaim 1, wherein the component body has a force receiving regionconfigured to receive the acting force, wherein a tensile strength of afirst deformation zone of the locally distributed deformation zones, thefirst deformation zone being downstream of the force receiving region inthe longitudinal direction, is lower than a tensile strength of a seconddeformation zone of the locally distributed deformation zones, thesecond deformation zone being downstream of the force receiving regionand the first deformation zone in the longitudinal direction.
 8. Thevehicle component of claim 1, wherein the locally distributeddeformation zones are configured to obtain the deformation course of thecomponent body at the longitudinal direction.
 9. The vehicle componentof claim 8, wherein the deformation course of the component bodycomprises one or more of: a bend or a fold.
 10. The vehicle component ofclaim 1, wherein each of the locally distributed deformation zones is atleast partially enclosed by sheet material of the component body,wherein the tensile strength of the component body is different from atensile strength of the respective locally distributed deformation zone.11. The vehicle component of claim 1, wherein the component body havingthe locally distributed deformation zones is a thermoformed body. 12.The vehicle component of claim 1, wherein the component body having thelocally distributed deformation zones is integrally formed from a samesheet metal material.
 13. The vehicle component of claim 1, wherein: thecomponent body is made of steel, and the tensile strengths of thelocally distributed deformation zones are less than 1200 MPa; or thecomponent body is made of aluminum, and the tensile strengths of thelocally distributed deformation zones are in a tensile strength rangebetween 50 MPa and 400 MPa.
 14. The vehicle component of claim 1,wherein the component body outside of the locally distributeddeformation zones has an increased tensile strength by at least 5% withrespect to the locally distributed deformation zones.
 15. The vehiclecomponent of claim 1, wherein the locally distributed deformation zonesform zone groups of deformation zones of equal tensile strength.
 16. Thevehicle component of claim 1, wherein the tensile strengths of thelocally distributed deformation zones are lower relative to thesurrounding sheet material of the component body.
 17. The vehiclecomponent of claim 1, wherein the component body further comprisesadditional deformation zones distributed transversely to thelongitudinal direction.
 18. The vehicle component of claim 1, whereinthe vehicle component comprises one or more of: a vehicle pillar, acarrier, a longitudinal beam, a cross member, a bumper, a batterycontainer structure, or a vehicle body component.
 19. A method ofmanufacturing a vehicle component for a vehicle, comprising: forming asemi-finished product to a component body that extends longitudinally ina longitudinal direction; and applying heat to the component body toproduce in the longitudinal direction locally distributed deformationzones formed in the component body of sheet material, wherein at leasttwo of the locally distributed deformation zones are spatiallydistributed and space apart, and wherein the at least two of the locallydistributed deformation zones have different tensile strengths inrespect to each other configured to influence a deformation course ofthe component body upon a force acting on the component body, wherein atensile strength of each of the locally distributed deformation zones isdifferent from a tensile strength of the component body outside therespective locally distributed deformation zone.